A spinal cord injury occurs when a traumatic event results in direct damage to the cells in the spinal cord or there is a severing of the nerve tracks that release signals up and down the spinal cord. The most common type of spinal cord injury is a contusion (bruising) to the spinal cord or a compression injury caused by pressure on the spinal cord. Sometimes a spinal cord injury results from the severing or tearing of nerve fibres.
The spinal cord is divided into four major areas, the cervical region (neck), the thoracic region (chest), the lumbar region (lower back) and the sacral region (tailbone). The extent of damage will often depend on the location of the injury to the spinal cord. When the spinal cord is injured, nerve function can be affected, causing weakness, paralysis and a loss of sensation below the site of the injury. For example, an injury to the lower spinal cord may affect only leg movement and sensation, whereas an injury at the level of the neck may result in paralysis to the arms, legs and chest muscles. Generally, the higher the level of injury to the spinal cord, the less localized the symptoms will be.
At Horowitz Injury Law, we have extensive experience and a proven track record of resolving the claims of individuals who have suffered traumatic spinal cord injuries. We understand that the devastating effect of a traumatic spinal cord injury requires a lifetime of support and services for the victim and his/her family. While we will make every effort to settle your claims, we have the experience and expertise to take your case to trial if necessary to ensure that you and your family are fully protected under the law.
